Jack Russell Terriers can become a beloved part of a family, but buyers beware, these little critters are not for everyone. Jack Russells are quite active and they do not always do well around small children.

Despite some catches, Jack Russell Terriers are loyal, loving watch dogs. They are fierce and will stop at nothing to protect their family. If not properly trained, their barking can be loud or rather shrill and may annoy the neighbors, which is one of the reasons they are not usually considered good apartment dogs.

Jack Russell Terriers make great companions for the moderate to very active household which happens to be as fun loving and as adventurous as their pets. These animals are high energy dogs. They are bred to be hunting dogs and they are digging dogs as well. They flourish in households where they are able to get in a lot of exercise and playtime.

Jack Russell Terriers love children but are not recommended for households with small children running about. They can become very aggressive if hurt and will nip and bite. It is also important to teach your children the proper way of handing any animal. Pulling its tail to make it come to you is not appropriate behavior and will trigger the instinctual behavior of the dog to bear its teeth, growl and even bite.

The Jack Russell Terrier is a very intelligent dog and is quite trainable; however it can also have a stubborn streak. This stubborn streak is bred in to him. Jack Russells are hunting dogs. They must be alert, cunning, bold, and steadfast, hence the reason for the stubbornness. Their temperament is instinctual and is necessary in order to get their game.

Sometimes it means that the Jack Russell terrier will go against their master's commands. Having a mind of their own may work well in the hunt, but it certainly does not work well for the family pet. It is very important that you show him the chain of command; dominant owner, subordinate dog.

Jack Russell Terriers are diggers by nature. If do not want your rose bush destroyed or your lawn dug up in patches you may have to cordon your pet off from these areas or find alternative ways for him to exercise.

Jack Russells also have a tendency to wander away for days on end if not accompanied by their owners. Though this might be ideal for some families it will no doubt cause much worry and concern for others.

Jack Russell Terriers do not do well with other animals. A female and male Jack Russell Terrier is acceptable, but when the third one is introduced, you may be in for trouble. The weaker one will be constantly picked on. Since Jack Russell Terriers hunt vermin, you have to be very careful with your small pets such as gerbils, hamsters, birds and even cats. Be hyper vigilant, do not leave the animals alone together. If you do, make sure you have your Jack Russell obedience trained.

All in all the Jack Russell Terrier is a big dog in a small body and can capture your heart.